By Melanie Hamner – Account Manager | Exposition and Trade Services

If there is one thing the members of Commonwealth’s Exposition and Trade Services Division (Expo) have learned since its inception in 1995, it is that there is a convention, trade show, or special event for nearly EVERYTHING. Many are familiar with auto shows, comic cons, and home and garden shows, but that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the list of over 250 events the Expo team sees annually.

For many music lovers, the 51st Annual National Flute Association Conference was one such experience. From Aug. 3-6, 2023, thousands of flute players, instrument companies, and music lovers from all over the world gathered in Phoenix, AZ, to share and learn everything there is to know about the flute.

Another notable expo this year was the Abilities Expo, an event created to promote, fundraise, and bring awareness to different types of disabilities. All sorts of products and services that help people with disabilities were displayed from Sept. 8-10, 2023, at WestWorld of Scottsdale in Scottsdale, AZ. One highlight was a wheelchair football competition, which was very competitive and so much fun to watch. The people involved are amazing, and the overall expo is impactful to many.

In February 2023, Commonwealth Expo helped with an expo focused on a topic many people share excitement for: money! The team was lucky enough to provide services to the American Numismatic Association (ANA) National Money Show, an event all about different types of currency. During the event, the ANA hosted hundreds of coin collectors and currency enthusiasts to trade, buy, and sell rare and unique coins.

Like currency—and just as popular—there are many gem and jewelry shows held each year across the country. Each year, the Commonwealth Expo team works on not one but THREE shows dedicated to gems, diamonds, and other various regalia. Collectively, these shows attract thousands of exhibitors and attendees from across the globe.

The Expo team is looking forward to the year ahead with shows such as the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)  Conference and Trade Show. This premiere event is the country’s largest golf industry trade show, and Commonwealth is excited to be a part of it. Another upcoming event is the Sneaker Expo in August, which is expected to have over 3,000 attendees. Lastly, the Expo team is excited to host the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball Final Four Tournament this April. Like all the mega sporting events Expo has hosted in the past, this will take a lot of work, but it will also be a great point of pride for Commonwealth’s team to play such a big role while gaining national exposure.

Overall, a year at Expo is filled with busy and unique shows. Commonwealth’s Expo team takes pleasure in getting to know everyone and experiencing a new niche. With each show being different in its own way, there is something new to learn each day.